Why Are Social Interactions For Seniors Important?
Feeling lonely because of retirement, losing a spouse, or moving somewhere new? You’re not the only one. Life transitions can make us feel isolated, and it can be tricky to navigate the virtual world of staying in touch with loved ones from a distance.
At any stage of life, staying connected to others helps us feel a sense of belonging. Building a supportive community supports our physical, social, and emotional wellbeing. However, it can be hard to keep up these relationships over time as people move and abilities change.
Research shows that seniors are likely to remain more active, have better sleeping and eating habits, and have a decreased risk of depression if they have regular social connections with others.
Harvard Health goes a step further to suggest that seniors who regularly engage in social activities beyond those with close family and friends also experience “higher levels of physical activity, greater positive moods, and fewer negative feelings.” They believe this to be true because engaging in regular social activities often requires you to leave the house, resulting in a less sedentary and more active lifestyle overall.
However, finding new opportunities to do things and make friends can feel daunting, especially as we age. The good news? There are many opportunities to help you feel connected and engaged with others during this season of life, and we are here to help you find them.
Read on to find 5 simple ideas of how you can become more connected in your community right now.
1. Try an Exercise Class
Besides improving mobility, endurance, and mood, exercising can also be a great way to meet other seniors interested in staying active. Plus, there are classes to meet nearly every energy level and ability range, so you can participate however you feel most comfortable.
The Central DeKalb Senior Center provides an assortment of fitness classes. A few senior-centric classes they have offered in the past include line dancing, tap dancing, ballet, hula, chair yoga, Tai Chi, resistance bands, and senior bootcamp.
Additionally, the Decatur Recreation Center has a sampling of senior activities. Some of their classes have included functional exercise, different types of yoga, aerobic dance exercise, high-energy Contra dancing, and more. If you’re in the mood for something simpler, consider joining them for Wednesday Walks to walk and talk with other seniors.
2. Learn a New Skill
Learning can be a lifelong activity! There are plenty of available social interactions for seniors seeking to try something they’ve never tried before or improve their abilities within a familiar hobby.
Perhaps you’re curious about how to play Mah Jongg, make jewelry, or learn a foreign language. Maybe you have always dreamed of creating a mosaic, improving your writing skills, or trying your hand at acting or improv. All of these subjects have been offered as classes at the Central DeKalb Senior Center. Check their website for the most recent calendar and to find the ideal class for you.
3. Visit the Local Senior Center
Decatur is home to four local senior centers and two additional multi-purpose centers, each with their own unique set of amenities. Many have a large meeting hall, game room, fitness center, and more. The East Central DeKalb Community and Senior Center even has an accessible saltwater lap pool!
If you enjoy travelling to nearby adventures, but want to experience the journey with other active seniors, check out the Oakhurst Recreation Center’s programs and trips. For a small fee, you can join in the fun with admission, shared transportation, and lunch organized by the senior center.
4. Volunteer Your Time
Volunteering is a great way to become more involved in your community. Giving back to others can often help you as much as it helps them. Whether you’re passionate about helping the environment, local youths, or animals, there are likely many opportunities to volunteer within a short distance of your home.
If you’re not sure where to start, the City of Decatur can help find the right opportunity for you. From tutoring to bird rehabilitation, computer lab monitoring to budget counselling, there is a wide variety of skills and abilities needed for various volunteer positions. Visit their website to get started and find out what volunteer openings are currently available.
Similarly, the DeKalb Retired Volunteer Program (RSVP) specializes in matching seniors over the age of 55 with local volunteer opportunities. To get involved, call them at 770-482-0390.
5. Consider a Senior Living Community
Decatur, GA senior living communities typically have all of these opportunities and much more built into their regular scheduling. If you are searching for a friendly space that offers regular social interactions for seniors, enhanced safety, and personalized support when and how you need it, then senior living may be the right option for you.
Fitness classes are held regularly on-site where you also have access to a senior-centric fitness center to use at your leisure. Each month, the new social calendar is packed with opportunities to gather with large and small groups to enjoy a wide variety of activities, classes, events, and group outings. Volunteer opportunities are also scheduled on a regular basis to help give back to the community.
Whether you love spending time outdoors or prefer to relax out of the elements, there is always something to do at Arbor Terrace Decatur and someone to enjoy it with. You can maintain your independence while finding the support and continuous opportunities to build meaningful connections that you have been longing for.
Stay Active, Stay Young
If you’re searching for even more ways to remain active as you age, you’ll find plenty of ideas in our latest guide that cater to your unique abilities, preferences, and needs. Our team of experts has created this handbook to share our years of experience and save you the hassle of researching options on your own. Don’t miss out on this valuable knowledge, download your free copy today!
